Millie LaBowe

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mildred LaBowe, who left this world on March 3, 2025, at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was just weeks shy of her 99th birthday. Mildred, better known as Millie or MawMaw to all of those who knew her, was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend. She lived a long life full of love, laughter, and the joy of family.

Born in Jennings on March 31, 1926, to Olivia Landry Kratzer and Willie Kratzer, Millie brought warmth and kindness to everyone she met. After the unexpected deaths of both parents at a young age, she was raised by family members. She graduated from Fenton High School before completing business college. She worked in the banking industry as a bookkeeper before retiring from Calcasieu Marine National Bank after 30 years to care for her grandchildren.

She married the love of her life, John Adam LaBowe, on June 25, 1953, and together they had 4 wonderful children. Nothing was more important to her than family, and everyone was welcome at her house. The coffee was always fresh and was sure to come with snacks and good company. She was known for her fantastic cooking, especially her okra gumbo, which often brought everyone together around the table. Millie had a zest for life; she cherished her trips to the beauty shop on Friday and to Boudin King on Saturday. With such a large family, she rarely missed an opportunity to send a birthday card or buy a gift for someone she loved. Her faith and devotion were evident in her regular attendance at weekend Mass. Her unconditional love, support, faith, and strength are unmatched and will forever live in the hearts of her family.

 Millie is survived by her loving sons, Randy LaBowe and Timmy (Tammy) LaBowe; her daughters, Stephanie (David) Short and Karen (Richard) Mott; as well as her cherished grandchildren: Brandy (Darian) Breaux, Greg (Ryan) Short, Byron (Noel) LaBowe, Megan (Adam) Guillot, Mandi (Francisco) Rodriguez, Lindsay (Nichole) LaBowe, Kayley (Kegan) Myers, Kelly (Kane) Whitehead, and Maggie (Zachary) Connelly. She was also survived by 26 great grandchildren with another on the way. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

To honor her beautiful life, a public viewing will be held at Miguez Funeral Home on March 6, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a Rosary at 6:00 PM. Visitation will resume Friday, March 7, 2025, at 8:00 AM with the funeral Mass to follow at Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church at 10:00 AM. Shortly after the service, Millie will be laid to rest at 11:30 AM at St. Lawrence Community Cemetery located at 5505 Pine Island Hwy, Jennings, LA 70546.

Mildred’s legacy of love and generosity will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and we invite everyone whose life she touched to join us in celebrating her remarkable life.

Mildred was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her daughter-in-law, Theresa LaBowe. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Edna Carter, Hazel Landry, and Marie LeGros, and her brothers, Ray Kratzer and Lawrence Kratzer.

The family wishes to extend sincerest gratitude to each of her caregivers, including Darlene, Malina, Tammy, Gerry, Kalanie, Joyce, and Emmalee, that have made her many days so special. In addition, the family would like to express appreciation for Heart of Hospice, including Jen and Nneka, who shared so much love, kindness, and compassion to Millie and our entire family during this most difficult time.